The Department of Graphic Design and Industrial Design (GDID) at North Carolina State University College of Design is searching for a dynamic and forward-thinking leader to serve as the Department Head. With a reputation as one of the top-ranked departments in the nation, GDID offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in graphic and industrial design. The chosen candidate will be responsible for fostering a thriving research and engagement environment, building relationships with industry partners, and supporting faculty in their teaching, research, and service responsibilities. This individual will also play a crucial role in curriculum development, accreditation processes, and fundraising efforts. The Department Head will have a significant impact on the department’s continued success and its contribution to the broader design community.
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Job Description
The Department Head, Graphic Design and Industrial Design is a leadership position within the College of Design at North Carolina State University. This individual will be responsible for overseeing the Department of Graphic Design and Industrial Design, which offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate studies in these disciplines.
The Department of Graphic Design and Industrial Design at North Carolina State University is known for its excellence and is consistently ranked among the top 10 in the nation. The faculty in the department are highly qualified and have established themselves as innovative leaders in the field. The department offers a range of degree programs, including the Ph.D. and Doctor of Design.
As the Department Head, the selected individual will be expected to champion a thriving research and engagement environment within the department. This includes fostering collaborations with industry partners, promoting design scholarship, and securing external funding. The Department Head will also be responsible for managing and developing faculty within the department, as well as overseeing the department budget.
The successful candidate will have significant academic and scholarly qualifications, as well as the ability to work well with people and build consensus. They must demonstrate a current understanding of academic and industry practices in graphic design and industrial design.
In addition to their primary responsibilities, the Department Head will also serve as a representative of the department to the College Administrative Council and participate in department head meetings. They will also have teaching responsibilities and will be expected to teach approximately six (6) credit hours per year.
Other duties of the Department Head include advising faculty on their teaching, research, and service responsibilities, conducting annual performance reviews, and administering the reappointment, promotion, and tenure processes for department faculty. They will also oversee curricular planning and accreditation for the department, as well as foster interdisciplinary research and collaboration within the department, college, and across the university.
The Department Head will work closely with the Dean of the College of Design to develop fundraising goals and ensure that donor funds are well stewarded. They will also advise the Dean on faculty appointment matters, cultivate alumni relationships, and promote industry collaborations and partnerships.
The Department Head will have support from the Dean and will be expected to implement college policies while also providing input and shaping policies as needed. Effective communication between the Department Head and the Dean is crucial to maintaining a collaborative and supportive environment within the department and college.
Applicants for this position should hold a terminal degree in Graphic Design, Industrial Design, or a related field, and have a minimum of seven (7) years of combined experience in academic administration, faculty positions, and/or industry leadership in these fields. They should also possess management skills specific to the graphic and industrial design disciplines and have a record of participation in academic committees.
Preferred qualifications for this position include professional practice experience outside of academia, tenure in an accredited graphic or industrial design program, a Ph.D. in a related field, experience with program accreditation, experience with intercollegiate, interdisciplinary, and international partnerships, experience with advisory boards and alumni relationships, and experience with extramural funding for research and creative scholarship.
Applicants are required to submit a letter of intent, CV, digital research and/or professional portfolio, research statement, teaching portfolio, and contact information for three references.
For inquiries and nominations, individuals can contact Sharon Joines at sharon_joines@ncsu.edu, with a copy to Sofia Falasco at skfalasc@ncsu.edu.
About the Department
The Department of Graphic Design and Industrial Design at North Carolina State University’s College of Design offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate studies in these disciplines. The department is highly regarded and consistently ranks among the top 10 in the nation. It is known for its innovative faculty and strong alliances within and beyond the College of Design.
The department offers a variety of degree programs, including the Ph.D. and Doctor of Design. These programs provide students with a comprehensive education in graphic design and industrial design, positioning them for success in their careers.
Students in the department have the opportunity to learn from faculty members who are leaders in their fields. The faculty are equipped with outstanding national and international credentials, and they bring their expertise and knowledge into the classroom. This ensures that students receive a high-quality education and are prepared to make a significant impact in their chosen fields.
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Essential Job Duties
As the Department Head, Graphic Design and Industrial Design, the selected individual will have a range of essential job duties. These duties are designed to support the department’s mission and contribute to the success of faculty, students, and the overall department.
One of the primary responsibilities of the Department Head is to champion a research and engagement environment within the department. This involves fostering a thriving research culture and supporting faculty members in their research endeavors. The Department Head will also actively seek out opportunities for faculty to engage with industry partners and contribute to design scholarship.
Building relationships and support is also a key duty of the Department Head. They will work to establish and maintain partnerships and collaborations with industry partners, aligning the department’s activities with current industry practices. This includes securing external funding for research and creative projects.
The Department Head will be responsible for promoting faculty development within the department. This involves providing guidance and support for faculty members to excel in their teaching, research, and service responsibilities. The Department Head will also conduct annual faculty performance reviews to ensure that faculty members are meeting their expectations and goals.
Academic and industry focus is another important duty of the Department Head. They will work to align the department’s activities and priorities with current academic and industry trends, ensuring that students and faculty remain relevant and competitive in their respective fields.
Consultation and communication are crucial aspects of the Department Head role. The selected individual will work closely with faculty members, colleagues, and other stakeholders to ensure that the department’s goals and initiatives are effectively communicated and implemented. This includes representing the department at various meetings and serving as a conduit for information between the department, college, and university.
Overseeing course assignments and teaching is another primary duty of the Department Head. They will be responsible for assigning courses to faculty members, ensuring that teaching responsibilities are distributed equitably. Additionally, the Department Head will have their own teaching responsibilities, typically approximately six (6) credit hours per year.
Managing the department budget is a vital duty of the Department Head. They will be responsible for overseeing the department’s financial resources, ensuring that funds are allocated appropriately and in accordance with university policies. This includes monitoring expenditures, preparing budgets, and making strategic financial decisions to support the department’s goals and initiatives.
Advising faculty and conducting performance reviews are important aspects of the Department Head role. They will provide guidance and support to faculty members, helping them navigate their teaching, research, and service responsibilities. The Department Head will also conduct annual performance reviews to assess faculty members’ progress and provide feedback for improvement.
Administering reappointment and tenure processes is another key duty of the Department Head. They will guide faculty members through the reappointment, promotion, and tenure processes, ensuring that they meet the necessary requirements and deadlines. This includes providing mentorship and support to faculty members as they navigate these processes.
Curricular planning and accreditation are essential duties of the Department Head. They will be responsible for overseeing the department’s curriculum, ensuring that it aligns with the program’s goals and meets accreditation standards. This includes working with faculty to develop new courses, update existing courses, and plan for the long-term growth and success of the department’s programs.
Fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration is an important aspect of the Department Head role. They will work to create a culture of collaboration and engagement within the department, as well as across the college and university. This includes identifying opportunities for interdisciplinary research projects and initiatives and facilitating collaboration among faculty members and students from different disciplines.
Engaging in doctoral programs and interdisciplinary initiatives is another duty of the Department Head. They will actively participate in the college’s doctoral programs and contribute to interdisciplinary initiatives that align with the department’s goals and strengths. This includes collaborating with faculty from other departments and colleges to develop and implement interdisciplinary programs and initiatives.
Fundraising and stewarding donors is an essential duty of the Department Head. They will work closely with the Dean to develop fundraising goals for the department and ensure that donor funds are well stewarded. This includes cultivating relationships with donors, soliciting donations, and ensuring that donor funds are used in accordance with university policies and procedures.
Advising on faculty appointments is a key duty of the Department Head. They will work closely with the Dean to make decisions about faculty appointments, including hiring, promotion, and tenure decisions. The Department Head will provide input and guidance based on their knowledge of the department and its needs, as well as their understanding of the broader field of graphic design and industrial design.
Cultivating alumni relationships is another important duty of the Department Head. They will work to build and maintain strong relationships with alumni, keeping them engaged with the department and college. This includes hosting alumni events, providing opportunities for alumni to participate in department activities, and leveraging alumni networks for the benefit of the department.
Promoting industry collaborations and partnerships is a vital duty of the Department Head. They will actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with industry partners, fostering relationships that benefit both the department and the industry. This includes establishing corporate partnerships, facilitating internships and job placements for students, and leveraging industry networks to support the department’s goals and initiatives.
Other Responsibilities
In addition to the essential job duties outlined above, the Department Head will have other responsibilities that contribute to the overall success of the department and college.
Mutually supportive roles between the Department Head and the Dean are crucial to the success of the department and college. The Department Head and the Dean must work together to achieve the aspirations invested in their positions. They must communicate regularly and effectively to nurture new ideas, sustain existing programs, and shape college policies. The Department Head will rely on the Dean for guidance and support, while also implementing policies established by the Dean and the College Administrative Council.
Implementing college policies is another responsibility of the Department Head. They will be responsible for ensuring that department policies and procedures align with college policies. This includes staying up to date on college policies, disseminating information to faculty and staff, and ensuring that department practices are in compliance with college standards.
Effective communication with the Dean is essential for the Department Head to fulfill their role successfully. They must maintain open lines of communication with the Dean, providing updates on department activities, seeking guidance and support, and collaborating on initiatives and decisions. This communication ensures that the department and college are aligned in their goals and activities.
Minimum Education and Experience
To be considered for the role of Department Head, Graphic Design and Industrial Design, applicants must meet certain minimum education and experience requirements.
The minimum educational requirement for this position is a Terminal Degree in Graphic Design, Industrial Design, or a related field. This degree is necessary to ensure that the selected individual has the necessary knowledge and expertise to lead and guide the department.
Applicants must also have a minimum of seven (7) years of combined experience in Graphic Design or Industrial Design. This experience can be in academic administration, faculty positions, and/or industry leadership. The purpose of this requirement is to ensure that the selected individual has a comprehensive understanding of the field and the ability to effectively lead and manage a department.
Additionally, applicants must have credentials that support appointment at the rank of full professor. This designation recognizes the highest level of achievement in academia and indicates that the selected individual has demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and service.
Department Required Skills
Applicants for the Department Head, Graphic Design and Industrial Design position must possess certain department required skills.
These skills include management skills specific to graphic design and industrial design. The selected individual must have experience and expertise in managing these disciplines, including knowledge of best practices, industry standards, and emerging trends.
Participation in academic committees is another department required skill. The selected individual must have a record of active engagement in academic committees, demonstrating their commitment to academic governance and collaboration.
Other Required Qualifications
In addition to the minimum education and experience requirements and department required skills, there are other qualifications that applicants for the Department Head position should possess.
Academic administrative experience is a required qualification. This experience demonstrates that the selected individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage and lead an academic department. It also indicates an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities in academia.
Program leadership experience is another required qualification. The selected individual must have demonstrated leadership abilities, particularly in relation to program development and management. This experience ensures that they have the skills and knowledge to guide the department and its programs effectively.
Having received tenure or gone through an equivalent promotional review process is a required qualification. This demonstrates that the selected individual has achieved a high level of professional recognition and has undergone rigorous evaluation of their teaching, research, and service contributions.
Preferred Qualifications
While not required, there are certain preferred qualifications that can enhance an applicant’s candidacy for the Department Head position.
Professional practice experience outside of the academic context is a preferred qualification. This experience indicates that the selected individual has real-world expertise and can bring practical insights and perspectives to their role as Department Head.
Having received tenure in an accredited graphic or industrial design program is another preferred qualification. This demonstrates a high level of professional achievement and recognition within the field. It also indicates familiarity with the tenure process and standards in academia.
A Ph.D. in graphic design, industrial design, or a related field is a preferred qualification. This advanced degree demonstrates a high level of academic achievement and indicates that the selected individual has a deep understanding of the theories and practices in their field.
Experience with program accreditation is a preferred qualification. Accreditation is an important aspect of quality assurance in higher education, and experience with accreditation demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high standards in the department’s programs.
Experience with intercollegiate, interdisciplinary, and international partnerships and programs is another preferred qualification. This experience indicates that the selected individual has a global perspective and is able to collaborate effectively with diverse partners. It also demonstrates an understanding of the importance of interdisciplinary and international collaborations in academia.
Experience with advisory boards and maintaining strong relationships with alumni and donors is a preferred qualification. This indicates that the selected individual has the skills and knowledge to engage stakeholders and cultivate relationships that benefit the department and its programs.
Experience with extramural funding for research and/or funding that supports creative scholarship is a preferred qualification. This experience demonstrates the ability to secure external funding, which is crucial for supporting innovative research and creative projects within the department.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants for the Department Head position are required to submit several documents as part of their application.
These documents include a letter of intent, which should describe the applicant’s qualifications and interests in the position. A curriculum vitae (CV) should also be submitted, which provides a detailed overview of the applicant’s academic and professional background.
A digital research and/or professional portfolio should also be submitted, showcasing the applicant’s work and achievements in the field of graphic design and industrial design. This portfolio can include examples of research publications, design projects, teaching materials, and other relevant materials.
A research statement that includes a plan for scholarly production should also be submitted. This statement should outline the applicant’s research interests, goals, and plans for future scholarly contributions.
A teaching portfolio should also be submitted, which provides evidence of the applicant’s teaching excellence and pedagogical approaches. This portfolio can include syllabi, teaching evaluations, student work samples, and other relevant materials.
Lastly, contact information for three references should be provided. These references should be individuals who can speak to the applicant’s qualifications and abilities in relation to the position.
For inquiries and nominations, individuals can contact Sharon Joines at sharon_joines@ncsu.edu, with a copy to Sofia Falasco at skfalasc@ncsu.edu.
Conclusion
The Department Head, Graphic Design and Industrial Design position at North Carolina State University’s College of Design is an exciting leadership opportunity within the field of design. The selected individual will have the opportunity to shape and guide the Department of Graphic Design and Industrial Design, contributing to the success and reputation of the department and college.
The Department Head will be responsible for championing a research and engagement environment within the department, building relationships and support, promoting faculty development, and overseeing various departmental processes and initiatives. They will work closely with the Dean to develop fundraising goals, cultivate alumni relationships, and promote industry collaborations and partnerships.
Applicants for this position should possess a terminal degree in graphic design, industrial design, or a related field, and have extensive experience in these disciplines. They should also have management skills specific to graphic design and industrial design and have a record of participation in academic committees.
Preferred qualifications for this position include professional practice experience outside of academia, tenure in an accredited graphic or industrial design program, a Ph.D. in a related field, experience with program accreditation, and experience with interdisciplinary collaborations and international partnerships.
Applicants are required to submit a letter of intent, CV, digital portfolio, research statement, teaching portfolio, and contact information for three references. These documents will provide the selection committee with a comprehensive understanding of the applicant’s qualifications and suitability for the position.
North Carolina State University’s College of Design offers a supportive and collaborative work environment, where faculty and staff have the opportunity to make a significant impact in their fields. The Department Head, Graphic Design and Industrial Design will have the support of the Dean and the College Administrative Council, as well as access to resources and opportunities for professional development.
Overall, the Department Head, Graphic Design and Industrial Design position at North Carolina State University’s College of Design is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced and innovative leader in the field of design. The selected individual will have the chance to shape the future of graphic design and industrial design education and contribute to the continued success of the department and college.
